Can Burnham turn ‘Manchesterism’ into a practical offer for government?
Summary
Andy Burnham, mayor of Greater Manchester, has promoted a new political idea called "Manchesterism," which aims to change the economy by increasing public control over essential services and improving cooperation between government and business. While this approach is based on Burnham’s local experience, turning it into a national plan faces challenges including budget limits, political competition, and concerns from investors.Key Facts
- Manchesterism is described by Burnham as “the end of neoliberalism” and focuses on expanding public control of key services like buses.
- It promotes stronger cooperation between the government and businesses to share wealth more fairly.
- The approach involves greater local power (devolution) and managing essential services for public benefit rather than profit.
- Burnham plans to follow current government spending rules, meaning any new spending must be balanced by tax increases.
- Some economists and thinkers behind Manchesterism argue for state ownership of important sectors to reduce reliance on profit-driven models.
- Burnham himself prefers increased public control but has not directly called for nationalizing services like energy and water.
- The idea is influenced by Burnham’s practical experience running Manchester and earlier civic leadership models.
- Burnham’s team faces challenges including winning upcoming elections and calming financial markets worried about government borrowing.
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